# Jeroboam ## Name(s) and Meaning - **Names:** Jeroboam. - **Meaning:** "The people will contend" or "he increases the people." - **Significance:** Reflects the divisive role he played in the history of Israel, as he led a significant portion of the tribes away from the house of David. ## Lifespan/Timeline - **Lifespan:** Approx. late 10th century BC. - **Historical Context:** Jeroboam lived during the period of the divided kingdom in Israel, specifically following the reign of Solomon, when the kingdom split into the northern kingdom (Israel) and the southern kingdom (Judah). ## Roles/Titles - **Roles:** First king of the northern kingdom of Israel. - **Significance:** Jeroboam is a pivotal figure in Israel's history due to his role in the division of the united monarchy. He established alternative worship sites, leading Israel into idolatry, which had lasting religious and political implications. ## Tags - `#biblical-figures` - `#roles-king` - `#timelines-divided-kingdom` ## Cross-References - Jeroboam is introduced in [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]]. - His rebellion and establishment as king are detailed in [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]. - His reign and actions are further chronicled in [[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 14|2 Kings Chapter 14]] and [[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 10|2 Chronicles Chapter 10]]. ## Key References: Jeroboam ### Primary Passages - **Rise of Jeroboam:** [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]]—Jeroboam is introduced as an industrious servant of Solomon, and the prophet Ahijah foretells his rise to power over ten tribes of Israel. - **Division of the Kingdom:** [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]—Jeroboam leads the rebellion against Rehoboam, resulting in the division of the kingdom and his rule over the northern tribes. - **Idolatry and Innovation:** [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]—Jeroboam establishes golden calves at Bethel and Dan, leading Israel into idolatry to prevent the people from returning to Jerusalem for worship. - **Prophecy Against the Altar:** [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 13|1 Kings Chapter 13]]—A man of God prophesies against Jeroboam’s altar at Bethel, foretelling its destruction by Josiah. - **Judgment on Jeroboam’s House:** [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14]]—Prophet Ahijah predicts the downfall of Jeroboam’s dynasty due to his sins. ### Mentions in Genealogies - **Royal Lineage:** While Jeroboam himself is not part of the Davidic line, his rise to power disrupts the unified kingdom established by David and Solomon, leading to the separate lineage of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. ### New Testament References - No direct New Testament references to Jeroboam are present. However, his actions are understood in light of Israel’s continued struggle with idolatry, which is addressed in the broader narrative of redemption through Christ. ### Prophetic/Typological References - **Prophecy of Josiah:** The prophecy against Jeroboam’s altar in [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 13|1 Kings Chapter 13]] is fulfilled in [[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 23|2 Kings Chapter 23]] when King Josiah destroys the altar. This demonstrates the long-term consequences of Jeroboam’s actions. - **Symbol of Idolatry:** Jeroboam's establishment of idolatrous worship becomes a typological reference to the spiritual unfaithfulness that plagues the Northern Kingdom throughout its history, as seen in multiple prophetic books. ### Tags - `#key-references` - `#genealogy` - `#prophecy` - `#idolatry` - `#kingdom-division` - `#jeroboam` ## Relationships: Jeroboam ### Family Relationships - **Parents:** Nebat (father), Zeruah (mother) ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]]). - **Spouse:** Not explicitly named in scripture but mentioned as having a wife who consulted the prophet Ahijah ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14]]). - **Children:** Abijah (son who died as a child) ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14]]), Nadab (son who succeeded him as king) ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 15|1 Kings Chapter 15]]). - **Descendants:** His dynasty was eventually wiped out due to his sins ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 15|1 Kings Chapter 15]]). ### Allies/Friends - **Ahijah the Shilonite:** Prophet who foretold Jeroboam's rise to power ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]]). - **People of Israel:** Initially supported Jeroboam as a leader against Solomon's son, Rehoboam ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). ### Adversaries/Conflicts - **Rehoboam:** King of Judah, against whom Jeroboam led the northern tribes to establish the separate kingdom of Israel ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **House of David:** Continual conflict due to the division of the kingdom ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14]]). - **Judah:** Engaged in ongoing conflicts with the southern kingdom ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 13|2 Chronicles Chapter 13]]). ### Spiritual Relationships - **God:** Initially chosen by God to lead the northern tribes, but later turned away by instituting idol worship with golden calves in Bethel and Dan, leading to his downfall ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]], [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 13|1 Kings Chapter 13]]). - **Prophets:** Received warnings from prophets such as Ahijah regarding his departure from God's ways ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14]]). ### Tags - `#relationships` - `#family` - `#allies` - `#conflicts` - `#relationship-with-God` - `#jeroboam` - `#northern-kingdom` - `#idol-worship` ## Significance: Jeroboam ### Theological Importance - **Rebellion and Division:** Jeroboam played a crucial role in the division of the united kingdom of Israel, which had significant theological implications for the covenant people of God. His actions led to the establishment of two separate kingdoms: Israel in the north and Judah in the south ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]], [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **Idolatry and Apostasy:** Jeroboam is infamously known for introducing idolatrous worship practices to Israel by setting up golden calves at Bethel and Dan, leading the people away from the worship of Yahweh ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). This act is repeatedly condemned in the biblical narrative as "the sins of Jeroboam" ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 13|1 Kings Chapter 13]], [[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 17|2 Kings Chapter 17]]). ### Historical Context - **First King of the Northern Kingdom:** Jeroboam's reign marked the beginning of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, setting a precedent for the kings that followed, many of whom continued in his idolatrous ways ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 10|2 Chronicles Chapter 10]]). - **Political and Religious Schism:** His rule symbolizes the political and religious schism that plagued Israel, affecting the nation's history and its relationship with God ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14]]). ### Symbolism and Typology - **Symbol of Rebellion:** Jeroboam represents rebellion against divine authority, illustrating the consequences of turning away from God's commandments ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 13|1 Kings Chapter 13]], [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14]]). - **Warning to Future Generations:** His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of compromising true worship and the lasting impact of leading others into sin ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 13|2 Kings Chapter 13]]). ### Tags - `#significance` - `#theological-themes` - `#idolatry` - `#biblical-history` - `#division` - `#rebellion` ## Character Study: Jeroboam ### Strengths and Virtues - **Resourceful Leader:** Jeroboam was a capable leader, recognized by Solomon who placed him in charge of the labor force of the house of Joseph ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11:28]]). - **Chosen by God:** Initially, he was chosen by God to rule over the ten tribes of Israel due to Solomon's disobedience ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11:31-38]]). ### Weaknesses and Failures - **Idolatry:** Established golden calves in Bethel and Dan to prevent Israelites from worshipping in Jerusalem, leading them into sin ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12:28-30]]). - **Disobedience:** Ignored God's command to walk in His ways, leading to his downfall ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 13|1 Kings Chapter 13:33-34]]). - **Fear and Insecurity:** Acted out of fear of losing his kingdom, which led him to establish unauthorized worship practices ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12:26-27]]). ### Lessons Learned - Disobedience to God's commandments, especially in worship, leads to spiritual and national decline ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14:7-11]]). - Fear can lead to poor decisions that have lasting negative impacts, as seen in Jeroboam's establishment of idolatry ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12:28-30]]). - God’s promises require faith and obedience; Jeroboam's lack of faith led to the loss of his dynasty ([[1Kings/1 Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14:10-14]]). ### Tags - `#strengths-leadership` - `#strengths-divinelychosen` - `#weaknesses-idolatry` - `#weaknesses-disobedience` - `#lessons-obedience` - `#lessons-faith` ## Themes and Symbolism: Jeroboam ### Key Themes - **Rebellion and Division:** Jeroboam's rise to power is marked by rebellion against Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, leading to the division of the united kingdom of Israel into two separate entities ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). This theme highlights the consequences of disobedience and the fracture of unity among God’s people. - **Idolatry and Apostasy:** Jeroboam established idol worship by setting up golden calves at Bethel and Dan, leading Israel into sin ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 17|2 Kings Chapter 17]]). His actions illustrate the dangers of turning away from true worship of God. - **Judgment and Consequences:** The narrative of Jeroboam serves as a warning about the long-term consequences of leading others into sin, resulting in divine judgment ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 13|2 Chronicles Chapter 13]]). ### Symbolic Elements - **Golden Calves:** The calves symbolize idolatry and false worship, reminiscent of the incident at Mount Sinai with Aaron ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]], [[Exodus/Exodus Chapter 32|Exodus Chapter 32]]). They represent a departure from God’s commandments and a reliance on human-made objects. - **Altar at Bethel:** The altar symbolizes Jeroboam’s attempt to establish an alternative religious system, which stands in direct opposition to God’s ordained worship in Jerusalem ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **False Kingship:** Jeroboam’s rule foreshadows the coming of false leaders who lead people away from God. His actions serve as a type of antithesis to the true kingship of Christ, who leads in righteousness ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 17|2 Kings Chapter 17]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 24|Matthew Chapter 24]]). - **Warning to Future Generations:** Jeroboam’s life and reign provide a typology of the spiritual decline that can follow national division and apostasy, reminding believers of the need to remain faithful to God’s covenant ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 13|2 Chronicles Chapter 13]]). ### Tags - `#themes` - `#symbolism` - `#typology` - `#foreshadowing` - `#rebellion` - `#idolatry` - `#judgment` - `#apostasy` ## Connections: Jeroboam ### Parallel Figures - **Rehoboam:** Jeroboam’s counterpart in the divided kingdom, whose actions led to the split of Israel into two kingdoms ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **Solomon:** Jeroboam initially served under Solomon and was prophesied to rule over ten tribes of Israel, reflecting Solomon’s role as a significant king, albeit with a different legacy ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Christ Contrast:** Jeroboam's establishment of alternative worship centers in Bethel and Dan as opposed to Jerusalem is in contrast to Christ's fulfillment and perfection of true worship, highlighting the need for faithful adherence to God ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]], [[John/John Chapter 4|John Chapter 4]]). ### Cultural/Historical Context - **Divided Kingdom:** Jeroboam’s reign marks the division of the united monarchy into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah, a significant shift in Israel’s history ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **Religious Reforms:** His establishment of golden calves for worship in Bethel and Dan represents a deviation from centralized worship in Jerusalem, affecting the religious practices of the northern kingdom ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 10|2 Kings Chapter 10]]). ### Tags - `#parallel-figures` - `#foreshadowing-Christ` - `#historical-context` - `#divided-kingdom` - `#religious-reforms` ## Legacy: Jeroboam ### Impact on Israel/Church - **Division of the Kingdom:** Jeroboam’s revolt and subsequent reign as the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel led to the split of the united monarchy under Solomon into two separate nations: Israel and Judah ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]], [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]]). This division had long-lasting effects on the history and spiritual state of the Israelite people. - **Introduction of Idolatry:** Jeroboam established a new religious system to prevent his subjects from returning to Jerusalem, setting up golden calves at Bethel and Dan ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). This act initiated a legacy of idolatry in Israel that persisted throughout its history and was condemned by prophets. ### Mentions in Later Scripture - **Benchmark of Sin:** Later kings of Israel are often compared to Jeroboam, particularly regarding their continuation of idolatry and sin ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 13|2 Kings Chapter 13]], [[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 14|2 Kings Chapter 14]]). His actions became a standard by which evil kings were measured, emphasizing the enduring negative impact of his reign. - **Referenced in Chronicles:** The chronicler highlights Jeroboam’s rebellion against God’s covenant ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 13|2 Chronicles Chapter 13]]), underscoring his role in leading Israel away from Yahweh. ### Spiritual Lessons - **Consequences of Idolatry:** Jeroboam’s life serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of departing from God’s commandments and the enduring consequences of leading others into sin. - **Leadership Responsibility:** His story highlights the significant influence leaders have over their people’s spiritual health and the importance of aligning leadership with God’s will ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 13|1 Kings Chapter 13]]). ### Modern Applications - Jeroboam’s legacy is often discussed in sermons as a warning about the dangers of idolatry, both in ancient times and in modern contexts where anything can become an idol, taking priority over God. - His life is a reminder for contemporary leaders, both within the church and in broader society, of the importance of integrity and adherence to divine principles. ### Tags - `#legacy` - `#impact-on-israel` - `#church-history` - `#spiritual-lessons` - `#idolatry` - `#leadership` - `#divided-kingdom` ## Geography: Jeroboam ### Significant Locations - **Zeredah:** Jeroboam's place of origin in the hill country of Ephraim, which represents his humble beginnings before rising to power ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]]). - **Shechem:** A significant site where Jeroboam was declared king over Israel. It serves as a central location for his rule over the northern kingdom ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **Bethel:** One of the two locations where Jeroboam set up golden calves for the people to worship, attempting to establish religious centers independent of Jerusalem ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **Dan:** The second location for the golden calf set up by Jeroboam, further establishing his idolatrous worship practices ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **Penuel:** A place fortified by Jeroboam, indicating his strategic measures to secure his kingdom ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). ### Travel and Movement - **Flight to Egypt:** Jeroboam fled to Egypt to escape King Solomon’s wrath after Ahijah the prophet foretold he would rule over ten tribes. He stayed there until Solomon’s death ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]]). - **Return to Israel:** Upon Solomon’s death, Jeroboam returned from Egypt to take his place as king over Israel when Rehoboam’s harsh policies led to the division of the kingdom ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). ### Historical/Spiritual Context - **Shechem’s Historical Role:** Previously a significant site for covenant renewal, Jeroboam’s coronation here marks a pivotal moment of division in Israel’s history ([[Joshua/Joshua Chapter 24|Joshua Chapter 24]], [[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **Bethel and Dan's Idolatry:** These locations became centers for idol worship, representing a major spiritual departure from the worship of Yahweh, which had lasting consequences for Israel ([[1Kings/1Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 17|2 Kings Chapter 17]]). ### Tags - `#geography` - `#locations-zeredah` - `#locations-shechem` - `#locations-bethel` - `#locations-dan` - `#locations-penuel` - `#travel` - `#idolatry` - `#northernkingdom` - `#jeroboam` ## Additional Resources: Jeroboam ### Cross-Referenced Scripture - **Division of the Kingdom:** The prophecy of Ahijah concerning the division of the kingdom ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]]). - **Establishment of Idolatry:** Jeroboam's setting up of golden calves in Bethel and Dan ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **Condemnation and Repercussions:** Prophets' warnings against Jeroboam’s idolatry ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 13|1 Kings Chapter 13]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14]]). - **Legacy and Continued Influence:** References to Jeroboam's sin as a benchmark for future kings ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 10|2 Kings Chapter 10]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 13|2 Kings Chapter 13]]). ### Genealogical References - **Lineage:** Jeroboam is the son of Nebat ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]]). - **Descendants:** His son Nadab succeeded him ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 15|1 Kings Chapter 15]]). ### Maps and Geographic References - **Bethel and Dan:** Locations of the golden calves set up by Jeroboam ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **Shechem:** Jeroboam's initial capital ([[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]). ### Recommended Bible Study Passages - **Jeroboam's Rise and Fall:** [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 11|1 Kings Chapter 11]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12|1 Kings Chapter 12]]. - **Prophetic Judgment:** [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 13|1 Kings Chapter 13]], [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 14|1 Kings Chapter 14]]. - **Comparative Study of Kings:** [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 13|2 Kings Chapter 13]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 10|2 Chronicles Chapter 10]]. ### Tags - `#additional-resources` - `#cross-references` - `#genealogy` - `#maps` - `#kingdom-division` - `#idolatry` - `#prophecy`